WTN: '08 Knapp Finger Lakes Chardonnay

2008 Knapp Vineyards, Finger Lakes, Chardonnay ($11.99). Alcohol level: 12%. This wine is completely oak free, and it is getting to be our favorite Chard. Only some of those from Macon are in the same league, and they are going up in American $$.

It gives a nice blast of fruit on the nose and upfront. In the middle you get to savor the apples and pears, in an almost perfectly balanced wine. It caresses your palate, and finishes very nicely.

We matched it with grilled chicken breast over charcoal and apple chips; it had been covered with some EVOO and a rub of Herbs de Province, smoked paprika, salt and pepper. We had it with corn-on-the-cob, and sliced tomatoes. It was a wonderful Tuesday night.

While giving my lecture on Wine Science last Saturday night at the Buffalo Museum of Science, Knapp was one of several NY State wineries pouring at the event. I didn't try their Chard, but liked their Vignoles a lot and bought a bottle, even though it was a bit sweeter than I generally like. I may bring it with me to MOCOOL. Knapp makes some good stuff.

I'm not a fan of most of the Chardonnay I can afford, but I will give the Knapp a try now. I seem to remember that Knapp sold the place sometime ago. Correct?

...I seem to remember that Knapp sold the place sometime ago. Correct?

I don't know that for a fact, but at the Buffalo Museum of Science, they were pouring from the same table as Glenora.

They are owned by the same group that owns Glenora. We enjoy many wines from both properties.